BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport has received more than $8.8 million in grants for security upgrades and promoting lower emissions.

The U.S. Department of Transportation awards were administered under the Federal Aviation Administration. The airport must provide 10 percent matches for both awards.

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, praised the awards as opportunities to create jobs and enhance Alabama's largest airport.

Rep. Terri Sewell

"This critical funding will provide funding to the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport to improve both the environmental impact and safety concerns of the airport," Sewell said in a statement.

The total award consists of $6,001,875 for security enhancements associated with the airport's ongoing $201.6 million modernization project.

Construction began in June 2011 to update the airport to post-Sept. 11 security standards and expand traveler conveniences.

The airport also will receive $2,857,790 under the Voluntary Airport Low Emissions program. The FAA program is designed to reduce sources of ground emissions.

At the Birmingham airport, the emissions program money will cover new low emission vehicles and refueling and recharging stations among other air quality improvements.

"We believe that each of these grants speaks volumes for the level of support and confidence in this terminal project," Birmingham Airport Authority President and CEO Al Denson said. "We are sincerely thankful for the support from every person involved in securing these grants.